Morning Taxi Service for Staff – Clarification and Guidance

We would like to address the recent introduction of a morning taxi service transporting staff into Bazley, and to provide clarity around how this arrangement works, why it has been implemented, and how residents can best support a smooth and safe process for everyone.

What is changing – and what is not

• The taxi service operates in the morning only, between 7:30 and 9:00am.
• It is a single taxi, driven by the same driver every day, providing consistency and accountability.
• At this stage afternoon transport has not changed. Residents who currently assist by transporting staff sitting at the shelter in the afternoons are encouraged to continue doing so.

The driver who previously transported staff using a private vehicle is currently required to properly register his vehicle before he is legally permitted to transport people, whether staff or school children. Until that process is completed, this interim taxi arrangement is necessary.

Legal position

It is important to note that we do not have legal authority to prevent taxis from entering the area. The taxi service is operating within its legal rights.

This is not a situation we can control outright. However, by working with taxi associations rather than against them, we are far more likely to find practical, peaceful and sustainable solutions to the ongoing challenge of transporting staff in and out of Bazley.

Why a morning taxi service Is beneficial

The introduction of a formal taxi service offers several clear benefits:

1. Reliable transport for staff
   Staff have previously struggled with inconsistent and unreliable transport. A dedicated morning taxi ensures safer, more predictable arrivals.
2. Reduced burden on residents
   Residents have historically gone out of their way to transport staff — often making special trips and, in some cases, carrying multiple passengers in bakkies not designed or legally permitted to do so. The taxi service removes this pressure.
3. Continuity of service
   When residents are unavailable, transport has fallen away entirely. A taxi ensures continuity regardless of individual availability.
4. Improved safety 
   Overloaded bakkies are unsafe, uncomfortable and unlawful. A commercial taxi designed to transport passengers is safer, more appropriate and legally compliant.

Addressing resident concerns

We acknowledge that residents have raised valid concerns, and these have been carefully considered.

Criminal scouting or questioning of staff

Concerns about staff being questioned regarding residents’ movements are understandable. However, this risk exists

Staff will be encouraged to report any suspicious behaviour or questioning.

Suggestions to limit drop-off to a single location have been considered, but historically taxis have been allowed to drop staff along the roads. Requiring staff to walk long distances or steep hills would be unreasonable and unfair.

Proposals around a boom and guard have also been raised. These involve legal and financial implications and are currently being investigated by a dedicated sub-committee.

Taxi rank concerns

This arrangement involves one vehicle only. A taxi rank is neither required nor intended. The taxi will not linger in the area, as there is limited opportunity for outbound passengers and the driver will return directly to busier routes.

Speeding

Speeding is a concern across all traffic in Bazley, including delivery vehicles and holidaymakers. This will be monitored, and any issues will be addressed if they arise.

How the Service Will Be Managed

• Only one taxi will operate.
• The same driver will be used consistently.
• Rory Jardim the vice chairperson of the B.R.A will maintain communication with the taxi owners and address any conduct issues directly, as we have done previously with delivery vehicles.

Guidance for residents

To ensure this arrangement works effectively and safely, we ask residents to note the following:

1. Do not provide morning lifts to staff or hitchhikers
   Please do not transport staff during the morning taxi hours (7:30–9:00am). Doing so undermines the financial viability of the service, creates tension with taxi operators, and places both residents and staff at risk. While this may feel uncomfortable, these are the realities of the situation.
2. Do not engage with taxi drivers
   Please do not confront or engage with taxi operators directly. If you have concerns, contact us and we will address them on your behalf to maintain calm and constructive relations.
3. Travel allowances remain the same
   Many residents already include a R18 per day travel allowance in staff wages for the existing bakkie transport. This remains unchanged for the taxi service.
4. Adjust staff arrival expectations
   Staff should be expected to arrive shortly after 8:00am. Expecting arrival at 7:30am is no longer reasonable under the current circumstances.

In closing

Our aim is to ensure safe, reliable and dignified transport for staff, while minimising disruption and concern for residents. We appreciate the community’s understanding and cooperation as we navigate a situation that is not of our choosing, but one that requires a practical and lawful response.

Should you have any questions or require further clarification, please contact Rory Jardim directly at rory@bazley.org.za or 081 389 9558.

Thank you for your ongoing support.